Monday, December 8, 2008

Week of 12-8-08

Don't forget, the Holiday Bazaar is next Thursday, December 11. We will have some GREAT jewelry, purses, pashminas etc for those ladies on your gift list. You'll find a wide variety of styles and prices. Last year was wonderful, this year will be even better! PLEASE RSVP as soon as possible. We will be serving sandwiches, wine and other goodies, so we really need some idea of attendance. Of course, last minute folks are always welcome. You can bring your friends or clients too! The showroom will be open until 6:00 that night.

There will be a new pricer in effect for Bradington Young December 15.

New Fabricut pricers are here. Each of the 2007 top 25 has one in their folder. There are a few left in the drawer on the floor, and more on order for those of you who want one.

We have lots of discontinued memos in the memo room--any of you quilters or crafters are welcome to them, first come, first served, as always.

This time of year, we always have substitute mailmen. Please remember to put "Unit B" after our address to be sure your mail gets to CDT. As always,we love it if you pay by check, and when you do, jot your invoice number on the memo line. All these little things go a long way toward eliminating delays and mistakes!

Have a good weekend, see you at the Bazaar!!!

Week of 12-1-08

All of us at CDT want to thank you for all your business this past fall. We are so lucky to have such a nice group of customers to work with. Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Cathy Fountaine wishes to thank all of you who responded with referrals for an organizer.

The sample sale was a great success! Large crowds and tons of product moved! We intend to make it an annual event.

We have just received lots of new accessories, art foliage and orchids. This is great, because we sold over $10,000 retail dollars in accessories last week!!! Kudos to those of you who are adding to your profits with accessories!

Our website has been updated. The tabs for the blog, downloads etc are now at the top. Most of your forms and work tickets can be downloaded, filled out and faxed in to us.

Jody asks that if you have already faxed us an order, if you include a copy of the order with your deposit check, please mark DO NOT DUPLICATE--ALREADY FAXED on the order.

Effective immediately, you will notice a message on your orders. When we fax you a copy of your order, it is your responsibility to READ IT. If there are any errors, we ask that you inform us within 48 hours. If we do not hear from you, we will assume it is correct and place the order. If you get the wrong item...it will be your responsibility. We have had a rash of this type of thing lately. All of us do our best to read, interpret, and place your orders correctly, but it is YOUR order, and only you will know if it is written the way you want it. Please check your verifications carefully. This will save all of us time and money.

The new Ferguson Copland catalog is finally here, prices effective Dec 1.

New Century Signature Collection pricer effective Dec 1

Effective January 1 there will be new Hunter Douglas multiplier sheets. Some discounts will decrease, some will increase and some will remain the same.

If anyone is looking for an intern, let me know. I have some names.

Enjoy your holiday...we are thankful for you!!
Your friends at CDT

Monday, November 17, 2008

Posting for Week of 11-10-08

Remember that the SAMPLE SALE is next Weekend! Great bargains, beautiful things, several vendors from outside the ADC. Friday, Nov. 21 from 9-4...Saturday Nov. 22 9-3. Call us if you have questions.

You can also look at our website and click on the blog at the bottom of the page, to see the items we have available from CDT.

Fashion Tech has issued a new pricer, effective immediately. CDT will honor any outstanding quotes until next Friday, 11-21-08.

Fabricut has a new pricer effective as of Dec. 1

Remember that there is a Free Lite Rise promo on Duette and Applause until 11-17.

Century has new prices on the Signature Collection Upholstery effective December 1. Our rep, John Wynne will not be at his CDT office hours this month. He threw his back out at Market and will be having surgery.

Lexington Furniture has reworked their website, so it now shows no pricing. Hurray!!!!

There is a very nice young lady from Bufffalo Grove High School who is interested in the Interior Design Profession. She spent a day here at CDT, and would like to job shadow a designer. Is anyone able to help out?
If so, please contact Char at the CDT memo room.

Remember the IFDA Design Therapy meeting is at CDT on Tuesday Nov 18 at 5:30. Pizza and pop will be served. $7 for members, $10 for non members.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Update Week of 11-3-08

Hello everyone! Lots of news today. Hopefully there will not be any important info like dates or times left out!

The Arlington Design Center will be having a HUGE sample sale:

Friday, November 21, 9-4
Saturday, November 22 9-3
601 W. Campus, Building C

This is down by Design D'Vision, at the far East end of the complex. There will be signs marking the entrance.
After much discussion, we have decided to make the sale open to the public both days. Of course, you and your clients are MOST welcome---shop for them, bring them, schedule meeting times to help them shop, whatever works for you. If there is an item at CDT that you have had your eye on, and it is in the sample sale, you can have it now, and not wait for the sale. The prices are amazing!
These are mistakes, discontinued items, overstock etc. All the showrooms at the ADC are participating, along with A Roaming Gallery Artwork, Rooms and Blooms and some downtown showrooms who will be somewhat anonymous. TONS of great deals.

All items will have the retail price, and the sample sale price, so your clients can see the difference. No mention will be made of designer cost. All sales will be final. We will accept all the usual forms of payment from YOU the designer. The public will be limited to cash, Visa or MC.
If your client wants to pay by check, they will need to pay you, and you can pay us. We do not accept checks from non- trade buyers.

Elite will be available to deliver large items for the usual fees.

If anyone is interested, we have a gorgeous Marie Albert Armoire with warped doors that we are practically giving away. It would be a fabulous display piece with the doors open. Lots more good stuff as well.

On Thursday, December 11, CDT will host our second annual Holiday Bazaar!! By popular demand, many of our vendors from last year will be back, and several more!
The fun goes from 6-9 and the showroom and memo room will remain open till 6:00 that night.

Look for great jewelry, purses and lots of other goodies.
Flyers available in the showroom, and more info to follow, so SAVE THE DATE.

The IFDA "Design Therapy" event will be at CDT on Tuesday, November 18, at 5:30 pm.
The cost is $7 for members, $10.00 for non-members, which includes pizza, salad and pop. There is always an interesting topic of discussion. This is a great networking opportunity, which can be very helpful in slow economic times. We can always learn a lot from each other.

Here is a great marketing idea courtesy of Karen Canduso from Custom Interiors by Karen. Karen is treating a select group of customers to lunch and a day at the showrooms. They can browse and work on projects, get ideas and a behind the scenes look at our fabulous resources. Thanks, Karen, for sharing.

Lastly, Cathy Fountaine is looking for a good, reputable household organizer to assist a client with all rooms, including basement, and also home office filing. Anyone know of someone? We will pass the word on to Cathy.

Hope everyone has a good weekend. Let us know what we can do tho help you.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Update for the Week of 10-20-08

As a reminder, IFDA is presenting "All About Green" here at the ADC on Thursday, October 30. There will be booths in the hall featuring green product from our showrooms and other IFDA sponsors, and local vendors.
The main speaker is Beth Green, VP of Marketing for Kravet, presenting "Living Green Can Be Smart and Beautiful". Please join us for wine and cheese at the Kravet showroom.
Please RSVP to 847 394-1371 ext 26,
Or respond to this e-mail.

Fun Times, Great Deals!!!!!!
On Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22,
The Arlington Design Center will host it's first building wide SAMPLE SALE!!!

All of us have had sales from time to time, but this will be a biggie! There will be 10,000 square feet down by Design d'Vision, filled with items from our showrooms, plus some outside vendors. Most items will be below cost, in the 75% off range. Some items will be "garage sale price".

Friday will be for the trade only, with your typical billing and payment options. I assume we will be open 9-5, but just realized we have not really discussed that detail. Stay tuned.
Saturday will be open to the public, cash or credit card only. Hours from 9-3
All sales are final, no holds. Elite will be available to quote delivery on large items. Tell your friends, bring your clients.

CDT is considering offering a series of sales and marketing classes after the first of the year. We are toying with 6 classes from about 6:00-8:00pm one night a week. There would be a charge for the class, perhaps $150-200 dollars, possibly have pizza or something perhaps not. Cost would include a workbook and would feature some role-playing, some homework, some round table discussion and idea sharing, in addition to the actual lectures, which would be mostly done by Camille and I, but might feature a guest speaker or two. We have done extensive training in our past lives, and beleive that if you do not have business, you should spend an equivalent amount of time educating yourself, marketing your business and preparing for busier times.

Space would be limited to about 25 people. If you would be interested, please respond to this e-mail. If you have a topic of particular interest, let us know.

All the best, enjoy the weekend...no watching politics or economic news allowed!!!!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Update week of 10-13-08

We are plugging along here at CDT. Our traffic is down some, but many designers are reporting that they are still busy. If you are not, don't forget to contact your past costomers. Be proactive---don't wait for them to come to you!

We have had a good year so far, and are doing everthing possible to keep it that way. Just in case, however, we are doing some small things to economize:

From now until further notice, you may each have 5 free color copies per visit. After that, we will revert back to the $1.00 apiece, like we used to do. It's amazing how much we spend on ink cartridges. You can print most things from home now, and of course, there will be no charge for black and whites.

We will be stricter with our credit terms, particularly with those who chronically pay late. You will receive a notice in your next invoice as to the details. If you typically pay on time, this will not apply to you. We are sorry about this, but cash flow management is very important and it's a real problem to have too many overdue receivables. I would also suggest that you be careful to get a substantial deposit from your customers to protect yourselves.

There are a few things that you can do to help us, in addition to paying promptly. Please remember to patronize CDT, Design d'Vision, and the other small, privately owned showrooms whenever possible. The big, corporately owned showrooms will always survive, but us little guys need your support in tough economic times.

Also, please use cash or checks whenever possible. Credit card fees are a gigantic expense.

We have several lines here at CDT that are geared toward a budget minded client, such as Robert Allen @ Home, and Duralee's Suburban Home. There are several promotionally priced groups from Hunter Douglas. We now carry a very nice alternative to Luminette, called Provenaire, that is VERY well priced. Be sure to consider these optons for your clients on a budget. Don't forget Lane, Thomas Lawrence, and Butler for economical case goods and accent pieces. Just ask us, and we will be happy to steer you toward more affordable items.

As I said, many designers are still busy, so our higher end items like Century and Bausman are still in demand.
However we can be of assistance, just let us know. We will be happy to help.

We have a LOT of new accessories on the floor, and as usual they are flying out the door! Stop in and see for yourself.

As a reminder, there are new prices effective Monday, October 20 for both Chelsea House and Brimar.

We have plenty of copies of the Minutes Matter floor planning and window treatment design software here at CDT. If you would like a demonstration, Wendy and Andrea are both available to help. If your business is slow, this is an ideal time to get this program and learn to use it. That way, when things pick back up, you will be poised for greater than ever success.

Monday, October 6, 2008

John Wynne, RA Furn & Soft Home, HD Promo, Cox and Brimar Price Increases

Here is what is new for the week.

Remember, this coming Thursday, John Wynne from Century will be having office hours here at CDT. If you are working on a Century project, or want to learn more about this wonderful line, stop in and learn from the master. He will be here from 1:00 to 3:00.

See you there! Happy weekend.
Vicki

Lots of sales!

Through Oct 31: Take an additional 10% off Robert Allen Upholstered Furniture, and Robert Allen Soft Home Window Treatments.

Hunter Douglas Promotions:
Remember the child safety promotion--FREE LITERISE on Duette and Applause through November 17.

Rebates available:
Duette Vertiglide--$100
Luminette--$100
Skyline--$100
Pirouette--$50
Silhouette--$50
Duette Architella--$25
Vignette--$25
This is PER WINDOW, 10 unit max. Through December 15. You must get your rebate form at CDT. We will show you how to fill it out.

Price increases:

Cox has a new pricer effective Oct. 6. They have added in the fuel surcharges etc, and restructured their pricing. The prices will seem much higher, but we have adjusted your discount accordingly.

Brimar--new pricer October 20

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Fall Newsletter

Hi Everyone!

Remember that the sales on Taylor King and Temple end at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 30!! Get those orders in the sooner the better!

There will be new pricing on: Guy Chaddock UPHOLSTERY effective October 1
Century Elegance Upholstery effective October1
Ferguson Copeland wood and Upholstery effective November 1

We have the new Robert Allen Furniture introductions in our floor catalog. Really nice things with lots of flexibility
Some of the favorites from the Traditional group remain, the rest is new. Transitional and Contemporary is still the same.

High School District 214 is looking for a designer who would be willing to donate a couple hours on the day of your choice to speak at Hersey High School in the college and career center. This would be during the lunch periods.
If you would be willing to share your insight with some future designers, please call or e-mail Vicki and I will but you in touch with the appropriate people.

Here is the second issue of our newsletter via e-mail. We will no longer be doing a postal version, except for those few folks who do not do e-mail. Printed copies are available while supplies last in the showroom, You can also access the Showroom Scoop by clicking on the Blog space on our website. We figured it is time to make this change permanent, since almost all our customers are online, and it saves time, money, postage and paper.

Have a wonderful weekend...pay particular attention to the Century office hours.
Enjoy the newsletter!



Thursday, September 18, 2008

Seminar Cancelled

Everyone...there is NO seminar tomorrow. It was cancelled and rescheduled earlier this summer.

Sorry for any confusion!

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Hunter Douglas Promo, IFDA, Duralee Furniture

Lots of promotions this week!

First...to the designer who was looking for a round leather ottoman with a shelf below...I found another one, only I do not remember who you were! Call Vicki if you are still searching.

Our Duralee Fine Furniture seminar was a great success--thanks to all who attended. As those who were at the seminar know, Owner Select is made by Duralee, but is smaller scale, more traditional and can be totally customized. In addition, if you like, you can have them create an embroidered version of your logo for a one time charge of $80 (not the $175 we were initially told!). This can then be applied to any item for $25 apiece. If it is a loose cushion item, the logo will appear on the deck, under the cushion. If it is a tight item, like a side chair or ottoman, it will appear on the black cambric fabric that covers the bottom. This is a wonderful way to promote your business. To help you do this, CDT will provide you with 2 $40 rebate coupons that can be used on future Owner Select items. The rebate coupons will be good for one year from date of purchase. Duralee and Owner Select are both made from lumber to finishing touches in the USA. Best of all, they are NOT available in stores, so your clients cannot shop you.

Ficks Reed has a number of items that are available while supplies last at an additional 25% off. Ask Vicki or Camille for details.

Artifacts has a list of items available with quicker than normal ship times. Again, see us for details.

Hunter Douglas will have a child safety promotion beginning September 25- Nov 17. With any purchase of Duette or Applause honeycomb shades, you can receive a free LITE RISE cordless lift system. You can pick up a rebate form and instructions at CDT. Remember to stress the importance of child safety at the window, and take advantage of this promotion.

IFDA will be sponsoring "All About Green" at the ADC on October 30. I do not have firm details yet, but watch this space for times etc. The speaker will be Beth Green from Kravet. Lunch will be served, and there will be tables in the hall featuring green products and info.

IFDAs "Design Therapy" for September will be at CAI at 5:30 Sept. 30. All are welcome.

Remember to check out the wonderful Charles Faudree collection at CDT. You can qualify for a free copy of his latest book, or purchase one at a discount at CDT.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Duralee Seminar Tim

I accidentally omitted the times for the Duralee program. We will start at 11:00, and end with lunch at 1:00 on Wednesday, Sept.10. Seats are filling up fast.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Weiman Pricing, Duralee Seminar

Weiman has notified us of a price increase effective immediately. CDT will honor any outstanding quotes throught the end of this week...Friday, September 5.

We have just been notified that Jerry Hoffman, Duralee's new director of showrooms will be in town Wednesday, September 10. He and Walt Kozy will be at CDT to host a mini training on Duralee Fine Furniture and Duralee's newest acquisition, Owner Select Furniture. Owner Select is more traditional in style and scale than Duralee. It is EXTREMELY flexible, with many custom features.
Walt will then show the latest fabrics from Duralee and Highland Court. We saw these at the national sales meeting in July, and as always, were impressed.

If that is not enough reason to attend, Duralee and CDT will privide LUNCH for all those in attendance. We hope the short notice will not keep any of you away. Please RSVP via phone, fax or e-mail NOW!!!!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Duralee Furniture Price Increase, Charles Faudree, Century Website

Remember, CDT will be closed Friday-Monday this weekend. We will re-open on Tuesday September 2 as usual.

Effective immediately, Duralee Fine Furniture is implementing a price increase. However, CDT will honor any existing quotes thru Tuesday, Sept 2.

Lexington will have a price increase Sept 15 on both case goods and upholstery.

Century will be issuing new price lists effective September 15. Some items will increase, and some will remain the same. If you are working on a quote that will go out ast that date, please double check your pricing.
If you would like to use the Century trade website, you may use this log in that has been created for our customers:
Username: cdtdesigner
Password: Chicago
Lots of good info, photos and stock availability. We will be happy to give you prices.

Our Charles Faudree fabrics have arrived!!!! This wonderful collection from Vervain will be hung by middle of next week. They are soft, elegant, and very usable, even if you are not doing a country french look.

We are happy to announce that we have 2 cases of his latest book "Charles Faudree Interiors". Any designer with an order of at least $500 of Vervain fabric, which includes at least 1 yard of Charles Faudree will receive a complimentary copy of the book!!! Think how your client would love to have this as a thank you gift!!!

You can also purchase the book for $30 at CDT. This is $10 lower than the retail price. Please see Wendy if you would like to see the book. If you want to purchase one, we will write it up for you. If you want to reserve one, send us a PO.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Century Furniture Training Reminder

Remember that John Wynne from Century will be doing a mini training at CDT this coming Thursday, August 21, from 10:30 to 12:00.

Century is a HUGE line, and you will feel much more at ease with it if you have had some training, so please try to attend! Everything in this collection is gorgeous, so don't miss out on sales. Please call or e-mail your RSVPs. There is still space available!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Hooker Price Increase, Temple/Taylor King Sale-September

Sadly, we have more price increases to announce!
Hooker has a new pricer effective September 1.

Robert Allen is introducing new product, pricing and grade list effective September 15.

Please try to close your pending sales prior to these dates. In addition, many of our catalogs have stickers in them to remind you of surcharges or price increases. Please be careful and be on the lookout for this.

We are happy to announce that it is time for our twice a year sale on TEMPLE!! There is also a sale on TAYLOR KING!!

Both sales will feature the SAME conditions, which are:
* Take an additional 10 % off (this means your discount
is 40% less 10%)

* Sale begins at 9:00 am on September 1 and ends at
2:00 pm on September 30. We cannot accept orders
later on the 30th, because the factories close, and
there is a time difference.

Make the most of this opportunity! Call your clients, make flyers from downloaded photos. This is a great reason to call clients you have not seen in a while. Get your business geared up for fall, and before the holiday cut offs!! Happy selling!!

Monday, August 4, 2008

Sam Moore Price Increase, Disc Fabrics, Hunter Douglas Pricer Update

We have a new Sam Moore Price List effective July. CDT will honor old quotes for 5 working days thru August 8th.

We have had a number of Discontinued fabrics. If you are in need of some, they are here for the picking. Call Char in the Memo Room for more information.

If you have purchased a 2008 Hunter Douglas Price List thru CDT you should have received an update for September 2008.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Robert Allen Price Increase

Robert Allen has notified us of another price increase, effective immediately. Although they had an unexpected, mid season increase this spring, this one is actually the increase that would come in the form of a new price book, so this is the USUAL summer increase. They do not expect there to be any further changes in 2008. In order to save costs and for ecological reasons, they will not be printing huge piles of price books. They are trying to move all of us toward checking pricing online. This is going to be the case with all the fabric companies in the near future. So, folks, start getting familiar with those websites! The bright side is that you can also check stock, and get lots of other things done online.

Fabricut and Duralee National Sales Meetings

Camille and I recently attended the National Sales Meetings of Duralee and Fabricut. Both companies feel that in a slow economy the best move is to grow and get ready for better days ahead. As a result, we saw beautiful things, including lots of "GREEN" product. Our very favorite addition is from Vervain...a glorious new country french line from acclaimed designer Charles Faudree. You will love this--beautiful colors and textures, toiles, buffalo checks etc. Just what we needed. Charles himself is adorable...small, elderly, with a bow tie, and the author of 4 books on French Country style. He has been published in many magazines and won many design awards. We hope to have him as a speaker sometime in the next few months. Look for some kind of promotion at CDT featuring his latest book, which will show some of his new Vervain fabrics. You will LOVE it and it's the perfect compliment to our new French Heritage furniture.

Maxton, Invoices, Color Copies, Hunter Douglas, Sarreid, Clients, Charleston Forge, Fauld

Maxton Foliage has gone out of business, so we have introduced a wonderful new collection from Atrium Foliage. You will love their updated styles, shown in a beautiful CATALOG!!!

Many of you are having a hard time paying bills on time, because your clients are not paying you. Consider taking a deposit large enough to cover your ENTIRE COST. This protects you, and helps you stay current with your vendors.

Remember that, instead of printing tons of color copies at CDT, you can go online to our website, link to a vendor and get a larger, more professional photo, right there in your office. Much better for presentations.

We had a lengthy meeting today with the folks from Hunter Douglas Northeast, the fabricator that purchased Acme. We were VERY impressed, and expect to be able to offer you even better service and quality.

Sarreid has just sent us a new price list. While they have not indicated an across the board increase, some items have gone up. CDT will honor any existing quotes for 5 business days--July 24. Double check to see if there is a change in your items.

We at CDT are happy to welcome your clients. However, if they are going to come in without you, please call first, and let us know that they are coming, and how you want us to handle them. Remember...it's always better to come with them.

Charleston Forge has notified us of a 10% across the board increase effective NOW. CDT will honor existing quotes for 5 business days---July 24

Check out our new 18th Century furniture from FAULD.
Beautiful, classic, and not TOO formal. Perfect for today's customer and for our area.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Owner's Select & New Duralee Fabric Pricing

New Duralee Pricers effective July 1. Toss those old pricelists.

Today we had a mini-training with Joe Flynn of French Heritage. This is a beautiful collection with really unique pieces at a wide range of prices. Not all of them look like what you would describe as "French", so be sure to look at this catalog when you come in next. They have one catalog called the "Feature Series". These are the best selling pieces, in their best selling fininshes. They are typically available for immediate shipment!!!

Joe also showed us Fauld, a collection of lovely, traditional English furniture. While this is traditional, it is NOT as formal as some 18th century lines, so it is very usable by todays customers. Many items available quickly as shown, but full customization is offered on most of the line.

Have you checked out "Owners Select"? This is an old, family owned company that was recently purchased by Duralee, and is made in the same plant as Duralee Fine Furniture. Similar pricing and quality. Owner Select is more traditional in scale and style, while Duralee is more oversized and transitional.

One of the things we like about Owner Select is the great, hand rendered line drawings. This helps your client visualize without a fabric to confuse them. A creative way to use these drawings is to either color them with Photo Shop or to use colored pencils or markers to personalize them for your customer. Attach swatches of her fabric choices, and you have a lovely, very personal sales tool. We have examples for you to see in the catalog.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Accessorize with Eve

We had a cool thing happen here that we thought we would share with all of you. Perhaps it might inspire you to try something similar.

A designer, one of our regulars was in one day last week. She does some accessorizing, but not on a real regular basis. While waiting for her memos, she got talking to Eve, our accessory magician, and the designer mentioned that the client was having a party...maybe she should take some accessories--just for the heck of it.

They walked the showroom, and Eve made all kinds of suggestions. The designer took over $2200 in accessories. Only one item came back!!! Talk about easy money--$880 in profit! Talk about great customer service. Think about how long and how much work it would be for the customer, to do that on her own. Or for the designer to shop around!

At CDT we try to carry accessories that are reasonably priced, and that could work well in a variety of rooms.
We've said it before, but it bears repeating...if you are not accessorizing your clients homes, you are doing both of you a disservice. If you are unsure of this aspect of our business, Eve would be thrilled to help you, as would the rest of our staff. Try taking out a carload...sooner or later, you'll get the sale!

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Audra - Miss Florida results

To all you wonderful friends...

I have to tell you that I am just overwhelmed at the good wishes and lovely comments regarding my daughter Audra's Miss Florida adventure. I feel so privileged to work with so many caring supportive people.

Although Audra did not place (VERY tough competition, with literally 43 gorgeous, smart, talented and community service oriented young women...not to mention the bodies) she had the time of her life, learned a lot, won some small scholarships and got $200 Michael Kors sunglasses from the "Most Beautiful Eyes" people! She absolutely loved the girl who won, so if you have to lose, it helps to be happy for the winner. I was so proud of her graciousness in face of the disappointment (I was definately more disappointed than her. Mainly she wanted a cheeseburger and a beer. ) She is back in Orlando, going to summer school, waitressing and doing an internship at a local TV station. She is booked solid with appearances as Miss UCF and will graduate in December. So, she is happy, therefore, her dad and I are too.

Again, my heartfelt thanks to all of you. Your e-mails brought tears to my eyes.
Vicki

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Temple Price Increase

Temple has increased their prices, effective 7-7-08. They have agreed to honor quotes until 7-11 Friday. Please close any orders you may be working on with old pricing before then. Orders must be placed by 3:30pm on Friday via phone, fax or email to CDT.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

CDT Alumni Party

Top Row Left to Right: Vicki Martin, Jody Timmer, Penny Homscheid, Terri Franke, Amy Chappel, Andrea Schuch, Camille Sullivan, Jackie Olivera, Charlene Curtis, Jessie Ridgway, Mindy Wilson
Bottom Row Left to Right: Kelley Alcaraz, MaryKay Romanchuk, Char Colton, Margarita Letcheva, Wendy Khalil

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Audra's Most Beautiful Eyes

Hello everyone!
There is no news from CDT...just a personal request, which I typically will not do. However, just this once...

As some of you know, my youngest daughter, Audra is competing in the Miss Florida Pageant this upcoming week, finals are July 5. One of the many scholarships that are awarded is from the Florida Eye Center. If you go to this website, you can cast your vote for the girl with "the most beautiful eyes" hopefully, you will vote for Audra, #41, Miss University of Central Florida (UCF). I am sure that everyone just votes for their kid, or their friends kid, because ALL of them have beautiful eyes!
However, between the out of state tuition, and the wardrobe...an extra scholarship would be great!!!

http://www.mostbeautifuleyes.com/


So, in true Chicago style, vote early, vote often!!! Bookmark the link and vote daily if you want. One third of the score is from online voting, and one third each from the pageant judges and the contestants (who no doubt vote for themselves!!!)

Send the link to anyone you think might cast a vote!
We head to Tampa tomorrow, where I will probably not sleep for 5 days! My stomach jumps just thinking about this, although her interview today went well! That was a relief. Anyway, my thanks from a crazy mother!!
Vicki

Monday, June 30, 2008

Taylor King Price Increase, Century Sale, Hunter Douglas

Here is the latest. Taylor King has joined the growing list of vendors that have implemented a price increase. Effective JULY1st !!!!!

If you are quoting a job, please call us to correct your price. According to Taylor King, their suppliers have increased the cost of metal for the last 4 months running, and they have also gotten a foam increase. Of course, gas is adding to the problem. We appreciate that your clients will not be happy, but hopefully will understand. On the bright side, this is great incentive for them to make their mind up right away, so use this to your advantage.

You may be hearing rumors about this, so we wanted to tell you that as of early August, Acme Window Coverings will become part of Hunter Douglas Northeast. There is a growing trend toward consolidation, which keeps costs down. We have had meetings with our rep and the folks from HDNE and have been assured that we should see no interruption in our ship times. Our pricing will remain the same, and our RGA and repair procedures will not change. From what we hear, HDNE offers outstanding customer service. If there are any developments that might affect your jobs, we will be sure to let you know. The transition will be gradual, and we should not miss a beat. There MAY be some changes to the installation procedures, but we will keep you informed. Please be assured that we are on top of this---keep on selling and do not worry.

Now for the good news!
Century is offering some summer sales promotions.
Between now and September 1st, all pillow options are FREE on your first 2 standard pllows on any piece.
* Use any fabric at any grade!
* Use any trim at any grade!
* Choose any pillow fill!* Choose any special sewing treatment.

This applies to the following upholstery product: Signature, Elegance, Leather, Chair, C2 and Essentials.

Inaddition, you can take 50% less 20% off the following chair styles:

3208 Athens
3208 Saber
3227 Oval
3309 Sebastian
3229 Cabriole
3277 Gentleman's Game Chair
3289 Veneto
3506 Fowler

These are available in any fabric thru Grade 28.
Available in any group A finish, and with any group 1 nail, where applicable.

We hope this will help you generate some interest!

Another reminder to RSVP to the seminar on July 10, which is about French Heritage. BEAUTIFUL THINGS.
Remember, this was originally Ferguson Copeland, which will be re-scheduled once we have a new rep.

And do not forget August 21, Century Furniture. This is such a large line that it will really help you to become more familiar with it.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

French Heritage Seminar, "Sister" Book Review

We have just been informed that we no longer have a Ferguson Copeland rep. As a result, we are changing our July 10 training.

Joe Flynn from French Heritage will do this mini training.
You should plan to attend, because this is a wonderful collection. There are several different groups within French Heritage, each with different pricing and fininshes. Some are made in France. Get ready for the upcoming busy season by improving your knowledge now.

Also...just for kicks, here is a book review! I am reading
"Sister" the biography/memoir of legendary decorator (the term designer made her shudder!) Sister Parish, founder of Parish-Hadley and one of the first big name American Decorators. The book is great, written by her daughter Apple Parish Bartlett (how preppy is that), and her granddaughter, Susan Bartlett something or other.
I find it interesting that she describes the business as fun, torture or worry, depending on the chapter!!! Just like now.

Enjoy, and see you at the seminars. Do not forget the Old Biscayne program tomorrow!!!

Friday, June 6, 2008

French Heritage - Third Thursday Seminars

CDT is proud to introduce "French Heritage" We now have several items on our floor. One of which is a beautiful round pedestal dining table along with uniquely carved dining chairs. The finish is so amazing. We also have a small french armoire which has been hand carved. We invite you to stop in and see these beautiful pieces. We also have some very informative seminars coming up. The first of which is Old Biscayne. The owner of Old Biscayne will be hereto go over their line as well as explain their custom program. This seminar is on Thursday,June 19th from 10:30 until 12:00
The other seminars are:

Guy Chaddock and Ferguson Copeland- July 10th 10:30-12:00

Century Furniture Aug. 21 10:30-12:00

French Heritage Sept. 18 10:30-12:00

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Newsleter

Remember, CDT is closed tomorrow, Friday the 23rd.

Attached is our latest newsletter...just download and print.
We are having a series of seminars this summer...very casual, designed to help all of us become more comfortable with some of our furniture lines in preparation for a busy fall season.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Childrens/Young Adult Bedroom Furniture

Hot off the press!!! CDT will be carrying a great collection of kids and young adult bedroom furniture.

Stop in or call for details.

Camille and I will be leaving tomorrow for our annual Hunter Douglas trip. We will be on a Baltic Cruise, ending with 3 days in St. Petersburg, Russia!!

We will be gone 10 days, but our wonderful staff will be here to help you as usual. We are so lucky to have each of them here to hold the fort for us. Also, thanks to each of you who purchased Hunter Douglas product this past year. Travel is our very favorite thing, and this has become our annual get away. Like any "marriage" we need a change of scenery and time to just hang out, have fun and be friends.

I don't know how to say "good bye" in Russian or Swedish, so Adios...see you on the 20th!!

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Thayer Coggin, Weiman, Temple Sale, Heartland Drive

Due to feedback from you all, we have reconsidered our decision regarding Weiman and Thayer Coggin.
CDT will continue to carry both of these lines, even though we will probably not show items on the floor. The catalogs and fabrics will remain available to you as usual.
We are happy that so many of you like these lines. However, bear in mind that sales have not been strong, so if you like these collections, please support them by selling them to your clients.

Remember that you get an additional 10% on Temple during the month of May!

Don't forget to bring in your personal and home care items for Heartland Alliance. The box will remain her until May 16.

Thayer Coggin, Weiman, Temple Sale, Heartland Drive

Due to feedback from you all, we have reconsidered our decision regarding Weiman and Thayer Coggin.
CDT will continue to carry both of these lines, even though we will probably not show items on the floor. The catalogs and fabrics will remain available to you as usual.
We are happy that so many of you like these lines. However, bear in mind that sales have not been strong, so if you like these collections, please support them by selling them to your clients.

Remember that you get an additional 10% on Temple during the month of May!

Don't forget to bring in your personal and home care items for Heartland Alliance. The box will remain her until May 16.

Friday, May 2, 2008

New Lexington Pricing

Attention Designers!
New Lexington price lists arrived today- May 1st.
Please call or fax in for a quote if you are working on a project as many items have had an increase in price.
Thanks!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Taylor King Seminar, Last Chance on Sale Items

As a reminder, Nancy Edgington from Taylor King will be here to show us the latest fabrics etc. If you sell upholstery, this would be a great time to stop in.

1:00 Champagne and goodies!

SALE ITEMS!!!! LAST CHANCE!!!!!

All sale furniture will be leaving Chicago Design Team om May 6. Anything not sold will be donated. If you have your eye on something, you need to act now. Remeber, most items have additional markdowns on them, so there are very good prices.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Taylor King Presentation, Heartland Alliance Donations

We would like to invite you to a preview of the new things from Taylor King.

Nancy Edgington will be here at 1:00 on Wednesday, April 30 with large fabrics and photos of the lovely things that we were so impressed with at market.

We will be serving Champagne and treats, so please let us know if you are planning to attend.

Remember to bring donations for Heartland Alliance

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Huge SALE! Do not pay invoices that are faxed

There's a super sale going on at CDT!!!

Effective immediately, any item with a sale tag on it is an ADDITIONAL 20% off. This means if a lamp has a dot saying 2/3...this means it is 20 less 30, and you now get an extra 20! 20 less 30 less 20!!! Or whatever the case may be, depending on the dot on the tag. This is mostly accessories, but there are still several pieces of furniture that are a terrific bargain!

Stop in and see them.

Jody has asked that I clarify one of our procedures. If we FAX you a document that says "invoice", consider this an acknowledgement. We fax you this so that you can verify the info, and so that you know we received your order. YOU DO NOT NEED TO PAY THIS UNTIL YOU GET A BILL IN THE MAIL. At this point, the order will have freight charges on it and will reflect your actual amount due. We will be getting a stamp that says this, but in the meantime, ONLY PAY THE BILL YOU GET VIA US MAIL!!

Monday, April 21, 2008

Big Fish, Thayer Coggin, Weiman

We have made special arrangements with BIG FISH, a wonderful art and wall decor vendor to be a test case. Typically they require large minimum orders. Therefore, we have only been able to purchase product for the floor, and not put the catalog out.

They have agreed to try out a program of shipping "onesies" with no minimum. There will be a $15 drop ship charge, similar to Uttermost. This program will be in effect at CDT through the end of the year.

If it is successful, they will allow us to continue in this fashion. If there are not enough sales, we will revert to the minimum order policy.

Big Fish is a great source for art, so be sure to look at the catalog. We hope you will all support this experiment. It could be profitable for all of us.

Effective June 1, we will no longer carry Thayer Coggin or Weiman furniture. We have determined that our clientele does not need products that are that contemporary. In addition, all of our vendors have added contemporary and transitional styles that we feel will fill your needs very well. This will enable us to make room on the floor for other items.

If you have outstanding quotes on these lines, please close the sale before the end of May.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Lane Price Increases

As you know, Robert Allen raised prices last week.
Today, we were notified that Lane is also increasing their prices by 5%. This is effective immediately, and old quotes will not be honored.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes, but you should be aware that there are many changes going on in China---improved wages and labor laws, stricter pollution regulations and other factors that will inevitably increase costs. All we can do is be as educated as we can, in order to explain the situation to our customers.

The bright side is that maybe someday, more manufacturing will return to the USA!!

Temple Sale - May

CDT is happy announce that during the month of May there will be an additional 10% off on Temple Furniture!
Be sure to do a mailing, send e-mails etc. to all of your customers so that you can all make the most of this great pricing.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Robert Allen Price Increases

Effective immediately, Robert Allen has instituted a mid-season price increase. This is a result of petroleum prices, which affects everything from the price of gas for shipping and the production costs, particularly of fabrics containing petroleum based fibers. We had no advance notice of this, and are passing this on to you as promptly as possible.

We suggest you copy this e-mail and tape it to your pricer. We have been told that there will not be a new price list printed untill the fall. The website will reflect the current prices, so that will be a good resource for you. If we get an e-mail with a new printed price list, we will pass it on to you.

Meanwhile, the price increases are as follows:

Robert Allen
Fabric/ Trims priced at: Increased by:
10.00--25.00 .25
25.00--40.00 1.00
40.00--60.00 1.50
60.00--and above 2.00

Beacon Hill
40.00 and above 1.00

Please remember to add the increase to your future fabric orders. Neither Robert Allen nor CDT will be able to honor old prices should you forget to increase your prices.

We apologise for any inconvenience or confusion this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns give us a call and we will be happy to help.

Monday, April 7, 2008

Robert Allen Price Increase and Sale Items

Designers!
Important! All Robert Allen prices - including Robert Allen at Home and Beacon Hill - have increased effective 4-7-08. Please be aware when quoting. Any orders in with Robert Allen already will be honored at the old price. We do not have price books to hand out yet (we were just advised of this today) but will start distributing them as soon as we receive them.

Also, we still have several sale pieces of furniture on our showroom floor. I attatched pictures of the existing pieces in case you are unable to get in the showroom.
Please call or Email for pricing (they are at rock bottom low prices)!!!
They are (in order pictures shown):
Artifacts Nightstands Qty. 2
Artifacts Bed - Queen
Artifacts Marble Top Table
Charleston Forge Bakers Rack with Wood Shelves
Cresent Sofa Table
Dinec Counter Height Table with 1 Leaf and 4 Stools
Hurtado Bed - Queen
Hurtado Chest with Tie Storage
Leda Table
Lorts Counterstools - Qty. 2
Marie Alber Armoire - Doors slightly warped (perfect for a model!)
Payne St. End Table
Robert Allen Chair
Thayer Coggin Sofa with 2 Pillows
Thayer Coggin Swivel Chair
Weiman Sofa ONLY with 3 Pillows
Taylor King Occasional - Mirror ONLY

Hygiene/Home starter Kit Campaign at CDT

Starting Today-
We are participating in a hygiene/home starter kit campaign which is sponsered by the Heartland Alliance.
This campaign will benefit individuals and families living on the streets or newly housed throughout Chicago.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

You can help with contributions of the following full-sized items:
soap
toothpaste and toothbrushes
lip balm
shampoo and conditioner
combs and brushes
shaving cream
disposable razors
household-cleaning products

If you would like to contribute any of the above items, you can do so at CDT. We will have a box to drop items in.

The contributions you make will help improve the lives of men, women, and children who are threatened by poverty or danger.

Your contributions are appreciated,

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Price List Changes - Hunter Douglas, Robert Allen

Several small items of note:

Many of you missed out on our Accessory Open House due to Spring Break. (Camille and I are out of that loop--our kids are grown!) So, we are continuing the sale until further notice, and the consignment art and lovelyfloral pieces will remain here for a few more weeks as well.

Be sure to come in and see the great deals, some things are as much as 40-40 off!! Anything with a colored dot is reduced. Stop in and see!

Spring is also the time for new price lists! Hunter Douglas is having increases May 1. Some things will go up 5%, some things less, some will remain the same. We have no way of knowing what will change, so if you have orders pending, get them in.

Robert Allen is also changing the grades on the fabrics for the Soft Home and RA Furniture collections, effective May 1. You can view or download the new list from the RA website.

Friday, March 28, 2008

Hunter Douglas Training

We want to give you an opportunity to increase your knowledge of Hunter Douglas.
Please look at the schedule of trainings coming up. You can get this schedule by calling us and we can email or fax it to you.
If interested please FAX us your completed form, call us with your credit card information. Please fill out:
Name-Phone-Fax and Signature.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Lost Coat, Accessory Open House

We have a lovely camelhair mid length coat in our closet. Is anyone missing this???

Don't forget the Accessory Open House this coming Thursday from 10-2. GREAT markdowns...if you have had your eye on something, come early!

There will be special art vendors present, and lots of new things. Feel free to bring your clients!

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Accessory Open House

Don't forget that CDT will be closed March 21 for Good Friday.

Just a reminder that our Accessory Open House will take place next week,
Thursday, March 27 from 10-2.

This is traditionally one of our most popular events...there will be lots of new accessories, and even greater markdowns, so the shopping will be wonderful.

We will have some reps here, including George from Art Today, with his fabulous limited editions, Debbie from A Roaming Gallery, and Joyce from Rooms and Blooms with a great selection of floral. You can use this opportunity to network with these vendors, and contact them later for your jobs.

As usual, there will be lots of goodies to munch on, so please don't forget to RSVP!

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Reminder of Sample Sale, Price increase for Hekman

Just reminding you that we have great sale prices on floor samples here. Stop in and check it out.

Also, if you are working on a project using Hekman, there will be a price increase effective April 4th. This is a great way to light a bomb under your wishy-washy customers!!

Monday, March 10, 2008

Finishing Touches, ADO Pricer, Hunter Douglas Rebates

There have been several questions about the "Finishing Touches" seminar we are holding on March 18 from 10:30 - 12:00. As the name suggests, we will focus on accessories, art, rugs, etc. We will begin at the beginning--how to plant the seeds for fininshing touches right from the very first appointment. We have several tricks that get your client thinking about it, and some rules of thumb to make your job easier and fool proof.
You can easily add $500-$1000 to every job by adding those finishing touches. Don't miss this!

ADO has come out with a new pricer, effective April 1.
You can still use the old one for photos, but the prices will have changed so you may want to discard it.

There are spring promotions on Hunter Douglas Duette and Vignette. These are the rebate forms that you give your clilent to fill out after the job is done. Rebates include:
DUETTE
$20 on Ultra Glide and Easy Rise
$50 on Power Rise
$100 onVertiglide
$200 on Vertiglide Duolite

VIGNETTE
$20 Ultra Glide and Top Down Bottom Up
$50 Power Rise

All Promos have a 4 UNIT MAX

This is a great way to get clients to decide now!! Promo ends May 31.

If you have not stopped in for our floor sample sale, you should! Great stuff at great prices!!

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

More Great Deals on Upholstery







Sofa #4









Chair #4

Great Deals on Lamps





Lamp #1





















Lamp #2


















Left - Lamp #3
Right - Lamp #4

LAMPS ARE NOT A PAIR














Lamps #5 & 6

Lamps are a pair



















Lamp #7


















Left - Lamp #8
Right - Lamp #9


















Lamp #10














Lamp #11




















Left - Lamp #12
Right - Lamp #13





















Lamp #14















Lamp #15



















Lamp #16



















Lamp #17















Lamp #18



















Lamps #19 & 20

Lamps are a pair












Left - Lamp #21
Center - Lamp #22
Right - Lamp #23

















Left - Lamp #24
Right - Lamp #25
















Left - Lamp #26
Center - Lamp #27
Right - Lamp #28















Left - Lamp #29
Right - Lamp #30














Left - Lamp #31
Center - Lamp #32
Right - Lamp #33













Finishing Touches Seminar

Attention, designers!

Don't forget to sign up for the "Finishing Touches" seminar on March 18 rom 10:30-12:00. As usual, continental breakfast will be served.
Camille, Andrea, Eve and I worked all weekend rearranging the showroom floor and most of it looks gorgeous. Lots of new things for you to see, and some familiar things placed in new settings.

Part of the showroom looks not so great...actually bad! This is because:

CDT is having an unprecedented sale!!! There is furniture, lamps, art, mirrors and accessories at tremendous savings. There have been quite a few things go right away, so do not delay! All sale items are in the Fabricut room, so it is easy to see what the bargains are.

You can go on the blog on our website to see what's marked down, and things are being added daily! We are in housecleaning mode! We need to make room for fresh new things, and for the 3 shipments of accessories that are coming in in time for our "Accessory Open House" on March 27.

As in past years, there will be some reps, including "Debbie" from Roaming Gallery Artwork, and George from "Art Today". These are vendors you don't usually see at CDT. There will be lots of beautiful new things, and other special treats, both visual and edible.

Please RSVP!!